- Whether exchange rates are better abroad or domestically depends a lot on the destination, but generally, it is better to exchange domestically before traveling to a foreign destination. There are fewer time constraints, and exchanging domestically removes the possibility of encountering difficulties that may arise from trying to exchange money in an unfamiliar region where a person may not speak the language. In the U.S., some banks and credit unions provide Mutual Fund Calculator services that normally provide better exchange rates and lower fees than other methods. It is also possible to order foreign currency on some currency converting websites that will deliver it via mail. In addition, international airports normally have kiosks or stores for currency exchange. They are convenient, but they normally have the worst exchange rates and highest fees.
- When buying currency abroad, most people will simply choose the most convenient option, typically kiosks situated in airports, hotels, and high-traffic tourist areas that take advantage of desperate people who can't be bothered to look for better deals. It is advisable to first search for an overseas branch or ATM of your bank. Otherwise, local banks and fee-friendly ATMs normally have better deals.
- Destinations that are credit card friendly make it easier for foreigners with credit cards or debit cards, as they don't have to fumble over large amounts of foreign cash or pay large commissions, since credit card or debit card exchange rates tend to be pretty close to wholesale market rates. Also, credit cards and debit cards are probably a safer alternative to holding a bunch of cash. However, keep in mind that a lot of cards not oriented towards travel perks will have foreign transaction fees.
- It is common for people to come back from foreign destinations with some foreign currency left over. There's not much else to do with it aside from keeping it as memorabilia, but it is possible to sell it back to a bank or broker. Again, selling back to banks or credit unions is normally preferred in terms of exchange rates and fees.
Factors that Influence Exchange Rates Between Currencies
In the real world, the exchange rates can be influenced by thousands of different factors. The following are a few:
- Differences in inflation—From an international currency exchange standpoint, the currency of one economy with low inflation rates will generally see a rise in currency value as purchasing power increases. The currency of another economy with higher inflation will usually depreciate in relation to a lower inflation currency.
- Differences in interest rates—the interest rates may affect the demand of a currency as well as the inflation rate of an economy, which can drive the exchange rates up or down.
- Trade Deficits—If an economy is spending more than it is earning through foreign trade (goods, services, interest, dividends, etc.), it is operating at a deficit. In other words, it requires more foreign currency than it receives through the sale of exports, supplying more of its own currency than foreigners demand for its products.
- Politics—Governments can enact policies or regulations that directly or indirectly impact exchange rates. Also, economies with stable politics generally make better foreign investments than economies that constantly suffer from political strife. Perceived instability causes a loss of confidence in currencies within economies and a movement of foreign funds into more stable economies.
- Economic performance—The performance of economies also dictates the exchange rate of their currencies. When global capital searches for the best place to make a return, strong economies are usually a good choice. As a result, an influx of capital into a certain economy will increase the buying power of that economy's currency.
